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As we are all very aware, many members of our community, including our family and close friends, have
experienced victimization to varying degrees. Grief, abuse, and exploitation have become all too common
terms in our vocabulary, especially here on our reservations. Victim services programs for the Kalispel,
Colville, and Spokane Tribal communities have joined together to bring awareness and healing to our
communities by acknowledging the effect crime has had in our areas, the traumatic impact it has had on
our families, and bring attention to the services and support offered locally.
This April 23rd – 29th, 2023, has been designated as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), and our tribal victim services teams are asking the community to attach blue, green, and purple ribbons to
locations around our reservations to show support to our victims. Under the theme, “Survivor Voices: Elevate. Engage. Effect Change.” blue, green and purple were designated nationally as the symbolic colors
for NCVRW and represent multiple causes including crime victims’ rights, mental health, and domestic violence and abuse.
Free precut ribbons will be located at tribal offices, local businesses, and public buildings during the entire month of April. Please take these ribbons and display them where they will create awareness and support for those we care about, or in places that have special meaning to you and your family. Help our reservations acknowledge the difficult journey survivors of traumatic experiences have traveled, as well
as show appreciation to those who have been working to support victims.
Since 1981, when President Ronald Reagan first established Crime Victims Week, communities across the nation have been commemorating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) by honoring victims and acknowledging the work done by professionals to support them. As the theme states, we must elevate our voices, actively engage by standing up for others, and work hard to effect change. Our families, friends, neighbors, and culture depend on us working together to create a healthier future for those we love. We look forward to seeing the colors blue, green, and purple explode across the three reservations as we progress through the month of April.
We have a greater impact on this world when we come together. Thank you for joining us as we observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 23rd – 29th!
If you or anyone you know needs physical, emotional, or mental health assistance please contact Kalispel Tribe Victim Assistance Services for more information about how to access services in our community:
Cusick Office: 509-447-7155
Airway Heights Office: 509-789-7671
24/7 Hotline: 877-700-7175
